BURGLARY/SHOOTING

Winnebago County Sheriff's PoliceNews Media Release

NewsRelease Number2012-025

Information: Burglary/Shooting

Date: August 23,2012

Time: 12:20a.m.

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OnThursday August 23, 2012 at approximately 12:20a.m. Deputies of the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Police responded to the 2900 block of Edna in reference to a burglary and shooting.Upon arrival they learned that a resident was alerted by an alarm system of a burglary to an un-attached garage on his property. The homeowner obtained a handgun and went outside and learned that his garage had been broken into and property taken. He confronted two suspects on his property, one of whom ran from the scene.The second suspect ran to a van parked in the street and attempted to flee and the homeowner struggled with him as he attempted to drive away recklessly. The homeowner fired several rounds from his handgun and the suspect drove off striking a boat across from the residence, however was able to get away.Approximately two hours later it was learned that a shooting victim had shown up at a hospital in Rochelle, Illinois and was transferred to a Rockford hospital by helicopter.Detectives learned this man had a gunshot wound to the stomach. He has been identified as Nathan Brown (DOB 9-21-80/31yrs old) of Rockford.A second person was taken into custody later in the morning. He is identified as Matthew Roman (DOB 7-12-89/23yrs old) of Rockford.The investigation has been reviewed with the Winnebago County State’s Attorney’s Office and a charge of Burglary was authorized on both men.The homeowner has a valid Illinois Firearms Owners Identification Card. No charges were filed on him.The charges against both men are merely accusations. They are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.Items taken from the garage consisted of yard tools.